Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, can be a challenging aspect of a woman's menstrual cycle. The discomfort and pain associated with period cramps often lead many women to reach for painkillers as a quick solution. However, relying solely on painkillers may not be the healthiest approach in the long run. In this article, we will explore the reasons why you should consider alternatives to painkillers for period cramps and highlight some effective natural remedies.
What causes menstrual cramps
Known as menstrual cramps, dysmenorrhea is very common during PMS and menstruation.
During menstruation, the uterus contracts to get rid of its lining – known as the endometrium… Menstrual cramps happen when a chemical causes the uterus to contract.
Therefore, dysmenorrhea is divided into two main types of menstrual cramps:
- Primary Dysmenorrhea
Being considered the most common type of menstrual cramps, primary dysmenorrhea is caused by prostaglandin which is a hormone found in the uterine lining that begins to increase its production at the onset of menstruation.
Primary dysmenorrhea generally tends to be worse premenstrually and at the onset of menses, however this decreases with age.
Women who have primary dysmenorrhea are more likely to experience cramping only during the first few days of menstruation.
- Secondary Dysmenorrhea
Secondary dysmenorrhea is considered the least common, being caused by a medical condition… Such as a gynecological infection, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts.
These menstrual cramps often get worse with age and can last throughout your period.
Women who have secondary dysmenorrhea need to consult a gynecologist to assess the case, find the cause and the ideal treatment.
Why is taking medication for menstrual cramps bad?
It's not news to anyone that excess medication can bring side effects to the body, is it?
Some medications, when used frequently, can even cause a rebound effect…
That is, it happens when your organism gets used to the substances and they stop taking effect.
An example of this are the anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve headaches in PMS. They are not indicated for prolonged use due to the risk of stomach disturbances and modification of intestinal functioning.
See below what are the harms of colic medications:
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Dependency;
- Intoxication;
- Damage to the functioning of the liver and kidneys;
- Stomach irritation;
- Hypersensitivity
How to relieve menstrual cramps naturally?
Many women have their routine compromised due to PMS symptoms. If you also suffer from this, I have great news for you!
Even if PMS still has no cure, there are several actions that can be taken to alleviate the symptoms. So let's find out what these actions are:
- Aerobic Activities
Well, it's not news to anyone that practicing physical activities is wonderful for our health, is it?
But, does the practice of physical activity help to reduce menstrual cramps? Yes!
According to a study, exercising regularly can help relieve pain caused by menstruation.
But.. How?
Gynecologists claim that activities stimulate the production of hormones that bring a feeling of well-being, such as endorphins and dopamine. In addition, the practice of these activities help reduce stress hormones - such as adrenaline and cortisol.
So, we have selected the most suitable aerobic activities for you to relieve colic:
- Race;
- Walk;
- Dance;
- To Go By Bicycle;
- Fighting, such as Boxing;
- Jump Rope.
In addition to relieving menstrual cramps, aerobic activities also help to reduce anxiety, stress, headaches…
So choose the activity you like the most and put together a beautiful and colorful outfit to relieve your PMS and say goodbye to stress!
- Yoga
A study revealed that just like aerobic exercise, yoga reduces menstrual cramps.
In this study, women who did yoga once a week for 60 minutes for 12 weeks showed significant improvements in menstrual cramps. If you have the urge to try yoga, look for a class with both a physical component and a relaxation component.
Research suggests that this combination is most effective in reducing the pain of menstrual cramps.
- Avoid caffeine and salty foods
In addition to relieving cramps, if you want to avoid fluid retention, bloating, and discomfort, it's a good idea to avoid certain foods.
So, check below which are the foods you should avoid during PMS:
Salty foods;
Caffeine;
Alcohol;
Fatty foods;
Candy.
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